In a remarkable display of spin bowling prowess, leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga delivered another outstanding performance, securing his second consecutive five-wicket haul as Sri Lanka convincingly defeated Oman by 10 wickets in the 2023 World Cup Qualifier.
The match, held in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, on Friday, showcased Sri Lanka’s dominance, with Hasaranga’s exceptional bowling contributing to Oman’s meager total of 98 runs. This victory places Sri Lanka in a favorable position to advance to the Super Six stage, having secured two wins from two matches.
Building on his previous six-wicket haul against the UAE, Wanindu Hasaranga continued to mesmerize batsmen with his crafty leg spin. Against Oman, he claimed five crucial wickets for a mere 13 runs, further cementing his reputation as a formidable force in international cricket. Oman’s batting lineup struggled to cope with Hasaranga’s variations and guile, eventually succumbing to his exceptional spell.
Despite a brief 52-run partnership between Jatinder Singh (21) and Ayaan Khan (41), which hinted at a possible recovery, Oman faced an uphill battle against the relentless onslaught led by Hasaranga.
However, it was the leg-spinner’s incredible triple-wicket maiden over that turned the tide decisively in Sri Lanka’s favor. Hasaranga’s devastating spell left Oman reeling at 72 for seven, effectively dismantling their middle order and diminishing any hopes of a substantial total. He fittingly concluded his superb performance by dismissing Ayaan Khan and eventually wrapping up Oman’s innings with the dismissal of Bilal Khan, trapping him leg before wicket.
Following their back-to-back victories, Sri Lanka finds themselves in a position of strength, with upcoming matches against Ireland and Scotland. The team’s confident performances, largely bolstered by the brilliance of Hasaranga, have provided them with momentum and solid prospects of progressing to the Super Six stage.
The entire Sri Lankan squad will undoubtedly take great confidence from Hasaranga’s exceptional form, and they will look to build upon their recent successes in the upcoming matches.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s exceptional five-wicket haul against Oman showcased his immense talent and skill as a leg-spinner. His remarkable performances in consecutive matches have played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s victories and have established him as a force to be reckoned with in international cricket.
